The tightened smoking ban is the strictest in all of Switzerland. The decision was made with 63 yes votes, 4 no votes and 9 abstentions. This change in law aims to protect the population, especially youth, from exposure to smoking, MCG MP Sandro Pistis said.
Smokers in the canton of Geneva must do without cigarette smokes in publicly accessible outdoor areas. This includes, for example, all training centers, schools, kindergartens and playgrounds. Sports facilities such as swimming pools, soccer fields and grandstands as well as ice rinks are also affected. Smoking will also no longer be permitted on the grounds of day and holiday camps or at public transport stops.
«Pioneers in Switzerland»
The sight of people smoking or cigarette butts on the ground could help young people start smoking, said SP MP Jennifer Conti, who introduced the bill. Several countries, including France, Spain, the United States and Canada, have already created smoke-free outdoor public areas. “With this text, the canton of Geneva is becoming a pioneer in Switzerland,” said the councillor.
“This draft law is innovative,” admitted the State Councilor responsible for health, Mauro Poggia (MCG). However, the magistrate did not rule out that some provisions, such as the smoking ban at bus stops, could be challenged in court.
In Switzerland, the federal law against passive smoking has been in force since 2010. Among other things, this prohibits smoking in all closed rooms if they are open to the public or serve as a workplace for several people. However, the cantons may enact stricter regulations. (SDA)